Tales of Leadership

Hosted by Joshua K. McMillion

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123

Latest episode

Jul 2026

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EN-US

About the show

Tales of Leadership is a veteran-owned podcast built to help you learn, grow, and tell your story —so you can lead with purpose, integrity, and inspired action. If you’re ready to expand your influence, sharpen your character, and become a more Purposeful Accountable Leader (PAL) , you’re in the right place. This is your tribe—real conversations, real lessons, and practical tools to become the leader your family, your team, and your future deserve.

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August 10, 2026Episode 12432 min

# 124: Joshua McMillion - Transformational Leadership

We Want To Hear From You 🫡Most teams don’t fail because they lack talent. They fail because leaders chase quick wins, cling to control, and create distance from their people. We’re raising the standard above the bar and getting specific about transformational leadership: the kind that builds trust, grows future leaders, and chooses significance over temporary success. I walk through 10 concrete traits you can practice right away, starting with leading like a shepherd who guides, guards, and grows without needing the spotlight. From there I dig into operating in the gray, building a real feedback loop when candid input gets scarce, and strengthening resilience so problem solving becomes a shared habit. I also unpack perspective and responsibility, plus HUGS: humility, understanding as empathy, gratitude, and a servant heart that serves without an agenda while still holding a high standard. Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words. 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.comEvery day is a gift. Don’t waste yours. — Joshua K. McMillion✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEKVisit Tale of Leadership Support 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits Support the show

July 26, 2026Episode 12344 min

#123: Christina Flach - More Than Makeup

We Want To Hear From You 🫡Christina Flach is a makeup artist and the CEO and founder of Pretty Girl Makeup. Her celebrity clientele includes Condeleeza Rice, Hilary Swank, Isiah Washington, Melissa McCarthy, Rita Moreno, Renee Zellweger, Tyler Florence and more. She has worked with high end brands such as Gucci and Louis Vuitton, has been featured in campaigns for Macy's, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue , and Bloomingdales, and has been featured in magazines including Vogue, Time, People, and Elle. In addition, Christina also writes articles about the best tips, tricks, and hacks in makeup and is featured as a beauty expert on California Live on NBC. In addition to her career, she is a devoted single mother of four, philanthropist, actively raising funds and awareness for Sepsis. She also started the Beau Friedman outdoor classroom at the Edna McGuire school in Mill Valley, California, raising money for the Baby Beau and Ken Flach educational funds at the Northern Light School in Oakland California. Christina uses her platform to promote the importance of feeling beautiful from the inside out. She inspires women to be the best version of themselves and how to overcome life's greatest obstacles. Connect with Christina Flach: -Website: https://www.prettygirlmakeup.com -Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Christinaflachmakeup/ Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words. 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.comEvery day is a gift. Don’t waste yours. — Joshua K. McMillion✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEKVisit Tale of Leadership Support 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits Support the show

July 12, 2026Episode 12215 min

# 122: Joshua McMillion - Do Good Work

We Want To Hear From You 🫡In this solo episode of Tales of Leadership, Joshua McMillion challenges listeners to stop waiting for the "right time" and start doing the work they were created to do. If you've ever felt busy but unfulfilled, capable yet stuck, this conversation will help you find the clarity to move forward with purpose. Joshua introduces a practical leadership framework built on passion, purpose, and precision—showing how each one plays a critical role in becoming the leader you're meant to be. Drawing from his own experiences, he shares how journaling, reflection, and intentional action shaped both his personal mission and the vision behind Tales of Leadership.The episode also explores how identifying your unique strengths can help you make a greater impact in the lives of others, while offering a military-minded perspective on overcoming obstacles that block, redirect, or challenge your path. Joshua leaves listeners with practical reflection questions and actionable steps to lead with greater clarity, conviction, and purpose. This episode is a reminder that meaningful leadership doesn't begin with a promotion or permission—it begins the moment you choose to do good work where you are.Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words. 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.comEvery day is a gift. Don’t waste yours. — Joshua K. McMillion✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEKVisit Tale of Leadership Support the show

June 14, 2026Episode 1211 hr 32 min

#121: Jason Sharp - What if Suffering is Your Path to Growth

We Want To Hear From You 🫡Jason Lee Sharp (born November 23, 1986) is a Chicago native, businessman, author, and soldier. He is the founder and CEO of Sharp Leader and Sherris Lounge, an infantry company commander in the Kansas Army National Guard, and the author of Eyes Wide Open: Learning to Suffer. Sharp also serves as a principal program manager at Leonardo DRS and is a member of the board of trustees at St. John’s Northwestern Academies. With a diverse background in leadership, business, and military service, he has focused his career development, growth, and mentorship.Sharp’s journey began in Chicago, where he survived a challenging childhood marked by drugs, homelessness, and the streets. After graduating from St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy, he pursued higher education at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, earning a bachelor’s degree in social welfare. Sharp went on to complete an executive MBA at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. His career spans multiple roles, including positions at Honeywell Aerospace and St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy, before he founded his consulting firm. He joined the Kansas Army National Guard in 2018 and later became an infantry company commander. In addition to his business and military leadership roles, Sharp launched the non-profit gritKC in 2023 to support youth in Kansas City.Connect with Jason Sharp:-Website: https://www.learntosuffer.com/ -Books: https://www.learntosuffer.com/books Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words. 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.comEvery day is a gift. Don’t waste yours. — Joshua K. McMillion✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEKVisit Tale of Leadership Support the show

May 31, 2026Episode 12031 min

# 120: Joshua McMillion - Be All In

We Want To Hear From You 🫡In this solo episode of Tales of Leadership, Joshua McMillion breaks down what it truly means to be “all in” as a leader, husband, parent, teammate, and human being. Leadership is not built in comfort. It’s forged through adversity, discipline, accountability, and the willingness to move forward even when life feels heavy. Joshua shares the mindset and routines that have helped him navigate pressure, uncertainty, failure, and toxic leadership environments while staying committed to a mission bigger than himself. This episode challenges listeners to stop waiting for the perfect moment and start taking purposeful action right now.The episode dives into building an unreasonable mission, developing steadfast resolve through daily habits, surrounding yourself with unbreakable relationships, and cultivating resilience through deliberate discomfort. Joshua also discusses the real cost of toxic leadership and why developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders matters more than ever. This episode is a reminder that the world does not need perfect leaders — it needs leaders who are present, committed, and willing to step fully into the arena. Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words. 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.comEvery day is a gift. Don’t waste yours. — Joshua K. McMillion✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST ✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW ✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEKVisit Tale of Leadership Support the show

May 24, 20260 min

Trailor - Tales of Leadership

We Want To Hear From You 🫡Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words. 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.comEvery day is a gift. Don’t waste yours. — Joshua K. McMillion✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEKSupport the show

April 13, 2026Episode 1191 hr 26 min

#119: David Brown - A SEAL’s Journey Against the Odds—Grit, Leadership, and Triumph

We Want To Hear From You 🫡David Brown is a graduate of BUD/S class115 and member of Underwater Demolition Team 21 and SEAL Team 4. David went on to conduct Navy special warfare deployments in Central and South America, Europe the middle east and Africa. Later he served the federal government as a Special Agent for 28 years, retiring as a Senior Executive. David’s latest venture is a new book about perseverance, overcoming obstacles, and becoming a Navy SEAL by former Navy SEAL David "Brownie" Brown and NY Times Bestselling author Bob Gettlin.Connect with David Brown:-Website: www.udtdave.com -YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UDTDaveTales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words. 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.comEvery day is a gift. Don’t waste yours. — Joshua K. McMillion✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEKVisit Tale of Leadership Support the show

March 15, 2026Episode 1181 hr 4 min

#118: Joe Byerly - From Green Notebooks to Lasting Leadership Lessons

We Want To Hear From You 🫡Joe Byerly is a combat arms officer with over 20 years of experience in both combat and training environments, serving at levels ranging from the tactical to the strategic. Passionate about leader development, he created this platform to help leaders share lessons learned from their own experiences, captured in their "green notebooks." Throughout his career, he has been fortunate to have mentors who encouraged him to read, write, and publish. Joe has contributed articles to notable publications such as ARMY Magazine, Military Review, Strategy Bridge, Small Wars Journal, Task and Purpose, and Foreign Policy. Featured on Forbes and a frequent guest on leadership podcasts, Joe has also spoken at prominent events, including the Annual AUSA Conference, the Future of War Conference, and the Defense Entrepreneurs Forum Annual Conference.Connect with Joe Byerly:-Website: https://fromthegreennotebook.com/ -LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/joe-byerly-bb67a377 Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words. 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.comEvery day is a gift. Don’t waste yours. — Joshua K. McMillion✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEKVisit Tale of Leadership Support the show

February 15, 2026Episode 1171 hr 9 min

#117: Brad Smith - How Purpose, Grit, and AI Are Rebuilding West Virginia

We Want To Hear From You 🫡Brad D. Smith became president of Marshall University in January 2022 after a globally recognized career in leadership and philanthropy. Formerly CEO and executive chairman of Intuit, Brad co-founded the Wing 2 Wing Foundation with his wife, Alys, to support education and entrepreneurship in Appalachia. The foundation's Ascend WV program recruits remote workers to West Virginia. A Marshall alumnus with a bachelor’s in business administration, Brad is committed to empowering future leaders. A proud “boy from Kenova,” Brad champions opportunities for his home state and its people. 🫡 Our mission is simple: To develop Purposeful Accountable Leaders — PALs — who do the right thing because it is the right thing to do and choose people over ego. Tales of Leadership shares real-world lessons, hard-earned wisdom, and practical tools that equip you to step into the arena, lead with purpose, live with integrity, and make an inspired impact. Whether you are leading yourself, your family, an organization, or your community, we stand beside you as you become the leader this world needs. 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.comEvery day is a gift. Don’t waste yours. — Joshua K. McMillion✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEKVisit Tale of Leadership Support the show

January 15, 2026Episode 1161 hr 11 min

#116: Mike Durnin - How Servant Leadership Turns Tragedy Into Purpose

We Want To Hear From You 🫡Mike has dedicated his career to higher education, serving as a football coach, instructor, and administrator at multiple colleges and universities. Throughout his tenure, he contributed to several conference championships, coached numerous All-Conference and All-American athletes, and mentored countless current teachers and coaches across the Midwest and beyond. As the President and Founder of Via Crucis Leadership, LLC, Mike is a dynamic speaker who brings passion, humor, and heartfelt stories to audiences. He emphasizes essential leadership skills based upon his “Handful of L’s” as a foundation for those striving to navigate and lead in today’s complex, “Chaordic” world (forces of chaos & order colliding). Guided by his mission of “1-0 Every Day in Every Way: Living life creating a transformation of self and others.” Mike inspires individuals to unlock their potential, embrace resilience, and foster meaningful change in themselves and others. Mike also serves as the President of the Chris Norton Foundation and was featured in the acclaimed documentary “7 Yards.” He holds a Doctor of Ministry degree and continues to lead with purpose and impact.🫡 Our mission is simple: To develop Purposeful Accountable Leaders — PALs — who do the right thing because it is the right thing to do and choose people over ego. Tales of Leadership shares real-world lessons, hard-earned wisdom, and practical tools that equip you to step into the arena, lead with purpose, live with integrity, and make an inspired impact. Whether you are leading yourself, your family, an organization, or your community, we stand beside you as you become the leader this world needs. 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.comEvery day is a gift. Don’t waste yours. — Joshua K. McMillion✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEKVisit Tale of Leadership Support the show

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Listen to episodes

# 124: Joshua McMillion - Transformational Leadership

#123: Christina Flach - More Than Makeup

# 122: Joshua McMillion - Do Good Work

#121: Jason Sharp - What if Suffering is Your Path to Growth

# 120: Joshua McMillion - Be All In

Trailor - Tales of Leadership

#119: David Brown - A SEAL’s Journey Against the Odds—Grit, Leadership, and Triumph

#118: Joe Byerly - From Green Notebooks to Lasting Leadership Lessons

#117: Brad Smith - How Purpose, Grit, and AI Are Rebuilding West Virginia

#116: Mike Durnin - How Servant Leadership Turns Tragedy Into Purpose

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